For many of us, 2020 was the year of the walk, with those working from home embarking on a daily stroll to break up the monotony of being sat at their desk.
To mark National Walking Month in May, Sykes Holiday Cottages has rounded up its best properties located close to some of the UK’s most scenic walking trails.
Whether it’s the eight-mile Breydon Water in the Norfolk Broads, Malham Cove’s natural beauty in the Yorkshire Dales or a historical hike in Farnham, ramblers can stretch their legs and tick some of the country’s most beautiful walking spots off their list.
To book one of these break click here.
- Explore Cannock Chase’s abundance of wildlife and greenery
Hen House View – Rugeley, Staffordshire – Sleeps: Two
– Price: Seven nights from £430
Cannock Chase has earned the title of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its sensational scenery, which can be explored through one of its many walking trails.
Visitors can head through Sherbrook Valley to see the local woodlands and take in the breath-taking views of Staffordshire.
Hen House View offers a cosy base following a day of hiking, with a private hot tub to soak aching muscles and a woodburner for evenings in front of a film.
2.Visit the hidden cliffs and volcanic rocks at Dunstanburgh Castle
Castle View – Alnwick, Northumberland – Sleeps: Two – Price: Seven nights from £363
While many visit Dunstanburgh Castle for its ruins, it’s also a great spot for exploring the rugged Northumberland coast, with endless panoramic views and an array of wildlife.
Walkers can see species of birds which live in the area, including oyster catchers, dunlin and redshanks, and also scale the castle’s border near the shore.
Stay at the aptly named Castle View in Alnwick, which was originally built in the 1800s. A short stroll from the village centre, there is plenty to see including Alnwick Gardens, which are home to a cascading waterfall, as well as some of the filming locations from the Harry Potter film franchise.
3. Test your photography skills in Malham Cove and walk through Janet’s Foss
Folly Cottage – Settle, Yorkshire Dales – Sleeps: Three – Price: Seven nights from £375
Malham Cove is renowned for its spectacular beauty and is home to waterfall Janet’s Foss.
Photographers can capture images of the un spoilt countryside, scenery and wildlife before continuing their walk from Janet’s Foss to Gordale Scar, a canyon flanked by rocks and rolling hills.
After a day of exploring, stay at Folly Cottage, which is located a short drive from Malham. Ideal for a small group of friends, the cottage has a snug courtyard for enjoying an alfresco meal or a glass of wine.
4. Complete the epic 246-km North Downs Way trail from Farnham to Dover
4 Greenhills – Folkestone, Kent – Sleeps: Four – Price: Seven nights from £322
The iconic 246-km scenic hike from Farnham to Dover is a must-do on every ramblers’ bucket list, and typically takes around two weeks to complete the full route.
Beginning in Farnham, the path is teeming with historical significance, including medieval castles, cathedrals, Roman forts, and shelters dating back to World War II.
For those looking to complete the first stage of the hike and enjoy a stay near Farnham, 4 Greenhills sits in an elevated position in the seaside village of Sandgate. Located within strolling distance of the promenade and beach, visitors can also enjoy the range of local art galleries in the Creative Quarter.
5. Follow the green path to Stanage Edge for unforgettable views of Hope Valley
Broadwood Barn – Hathersage, Derbyshire – Sleeps: Six – Price: Seven nights from £679
Stanage Edge has been hailed as one of the most beautiful hikes in England, with stunning views of the Peak District.
A green path leads the way to the top of the trail, which has a series of impressive gritstone monoliths – featured in the film adaption of Pride and Prejudice.
The trail begins and ends in the village of Hathersage, which has several boutique shops and cafes to keep ramblers energized. Families can stay at Broadwood Barn, which is located half a mile from the village and has a barbeque area for a well-deserved burger following a day of hiking.
6. Brave the marsh tracks and flood banks of Breydon Water’s eight-mile circular walk
Foundry Cottage – Reedham, Norfolk – Sleeps: Four – Price: Seven nights from £472
The Norfolk Broads National Park offers a plethora of walks, with routes along Breydon Water and Berney Marshes among the most popular.
Ramblers can explore the river with an eight-mile circular walk through the park, where the elusive Chinese water deer has been spotted. Towards the end of the route, snap a picture of Berney Arms Mill, which is one of Norfolk’s largest marsh mills.
Foundry Cottage in nearby, with a well-equipped kitchen for home cooked meals and local dog-friendly pubs within strolling distance if you’ve brought along a furry friend.
